Top Monterey & Carmel Spring Break

With a 99% success rate, this is how you up your odds of seeing whales on your visit to Monterey. On board one of the industry’s most comfortable boats, you’ll float out to a protected sanctuary to view humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, killer whales, sperm whales, and other wild creatures, including dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, otters, and more.

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this whale-watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your cruise.

California’s warm climate and rich soils make it a great spot for vineyards. Learn from local sommeliers who will teach you how the region’s wines are crafted on this small-group wine-tasting and walking tour, while you sample some of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s best local varieties. Then, head out for a walk around the city, exploring popular highlights and hidden gems. This tour is offered in English and French to accommodate more guests.

Go on a spectacular whale watching tour of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary with your experienced captain narrating the entire way. The boats range from 53’ to 70’, and they are equipped with bathrooms and plenty of seating. Your captain will guide you through the bay and find where the whales are playing. You just need to be ready and waiting with your eyes and cameras.

Drive through the streets of Monterey and Pacific Grove in a Sea Car, a 2-seat vehicle with GPS-enabled tour narrative. Skip renting a car and make your own way around Fisherman's Wharf, Lover's Point, and Cannery Row.

Indulge in a delightful chocolate-making with an optional wine or craft beer tasting at The Wine Experience on Cannery Row, Monterey. Under the guidance of Carrie Griffin, a seasoned wine curator turned chocolate enthusiast, learn to temper chocolate, craft truffle shells, and fill them with smooth ganache. This two-hour hands-on class ensures you leave with a beautiful box of your own decadent creations, perfect for sharing or indulging yourself. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a fun outing with friends, this experience is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Two-hour chocolate truffle-making class at Cannery Row Optional tastings of four Central Coast wines or craft beers Led by Carrie Griffin, a passionate host with years of wine expertise Group sizes up to 10, perfect for couples, friends, and private parties

This Carmel Valley wine trolley tour stands out by offering tastings at three wineries, lunch, and beautiful views. Take a scenic ride from Monterey to Carmel Valley Village aboard a vintage trolley or high-top van. Visit well-known producers and get an introduction to lesser-known gems in the area with an insider's perspective from your guide. Have lunch at one of two spots nearby before returning to Monterey.

Have a blast exploring Monterey with this app-led scavenger hunt and enjoy the magic. You’ll get to see the most entertaining sights in town, while learning about its history and culture, but you’ll have to answer trivia questions and solve challenges to unlock each new prompt. Enjoy this with a group of 10 or fewer people.

First you will be taken on a scenic drive through beautiful Carmel Valley in our 1970 VW bus. Once we arrive in the "Village" you will have 3 hours to explore and experience award winning California wines that are grown, produced and bottled within 25 miles. This is truly an experience you will tell your friends about.

Explore the culinary delights of Carmel, just down the coast from Monterey, on this food and drink walking tour. With a knowledgeable foodie guide, you’ll learn about the history and gourmet culture of Carmel, an upscale enclave known for its charming architecture and cozy, small-town vibe, as you visit local eateries to sample locavore and ethnic dishes, chocolate, and cocktails or spirits. Limited to 16 people, this tour provides a small-group experience with personalized attention.

This tour offers a truly distinctive Carmel Valley experience, highlighted by exclusive access to Bernardus Winery's Ingrid’s Vineyard for a unique educational walk led by your guide who has over 30 years' experience in the vineyard, followed by a premium tasting at the Bernardus Tasting Room. What truly sets this journey apart is the flexibility of your second tasting, allowing for a personalized discovery from an impressive roster of highly-regarded wineries like Chesebro and McIntyre Vineyards, ensuring a diverse and tailored palate exploration. Beyond the exceptional wines, the tour provides a holistic appreciation of Carmel Valley's charm, with observations of iconic points of interest such as Earthbound Farms' organic produce stand, world-class golf courses, and vibrant flower nurseries.

Spend a magical afternoon cycling through the lush vineyards of a 25-acre winery on the back of an electric bike with a guide to show you around. Then, enjoy a picnic of tasty snacks of artisanal cheese and charcuterie paired with delicious wines as you learn all about the estate and the drinks you’re sampling.